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Without a doubt, the Chase Ultimate Rewards program is one of the most popular travel rewards programs among points and miles aficionados — and for good reason.
With tons of ways to earn Ultimate Rewards points, the program may be the best credit card rewards program currently available, and it should be a top priority for anyone who wants to book award flights.
Once you have tackled earning some points, you can redeem Ultimate Rewards for award flights or hotel award stays across the world.
Let’s dig into what the Ultimate Rewards program has to offer so you can start putting together your next amazing vacation!
What Is Chase Ultimate Rewards?
Chase Ultimate Rewards is a credit card rewards program that allows cardholders to earn points on every purchase.
To earn Ultimate Rewards, you must hold an affiliated Chase credit card. Once you are approved for a Chase card that earns Ultimate Rewards, you will be enrolled in the program automatically.
The number of points you earn on purchases depends on which card you use and under what category the purchase will code. Each Ultimate Rewards card has bonus categories that allow you to earn between 2x and 5x points per dollar spent on the card.
These flexible, and therefore valuable, points can be redeemed in a variety of ways, but the best redemption option, by far, is for travel. Other redemption options, such as merchandise, direct statement credits, or gift cards, could result in far less value for your points.
With the right combination of Chase cards, you can earn tons of Ultimate Rewards points and have flexible redemption options.
Which Credit Cards Earn Ultimate Rewards Points?
Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed via Chase’s travel portal for flights and hotels, or transferred to travel partners. Image Credit: Virgin Atlantic
With each Chase card earning differently based on its own bonus categories, the key to earning the most Ultimate Rewards points possible is selecting the combination of cards that ensures every purchase you make will earn rewards.
The good news is that you can combine Ultimate Rewards points across all Ultimate Rewards-earning cards to maximize both earning and redemption options.
We’ll talk more about redemption options shortly, but these options also vary by card. For example, you must hold at least one premium Ultimate Rewards card to expand your redemption options and be able to transfer your Chase points to airline and hotel partners.
With a collection of Ultimate Rewards earning cards for nearly every consumer, you’re sure to find a match for your spending mix, redemption options that fit your travel objectives, and a card that matches your comfort zone for paying an annual fee.
Let’s get started discussing Ultimate Rewards points and the best cards for earning and redeeming these valuable rewards.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
60,000 points
$1,200
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cardson the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.
Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.
Pros
5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
5x points on select Peloton purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
2x points on all other travel worldwide
$50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
Excellent travel and car rental insurance
10% annual bonus points
No foreign transaction fees
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt
Complimentary Spot Club Platinum status with The Parking Spot for 2 years, 20% off of your first reservation, and points for 1 free day of parking (enroll by October 26, 2023)
Cons
$95 annual fee
No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one of the most popular Chase cards due to its generous welcome bonus offer and elevated earning on travel, dining, and Lyft purchases.
Holding this card also allows you to redeem your Ultimate Rewards for 25% more in value on the Chase travel portal and the additional option of transferring points to travel partners to receive potentially greater value.
While the card comes with a lower annual fee than most premium travel rewards cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card does not fall short on travel and shopping benefits and protections. In fact, the card has some of the best travel insurance available.
Hot Tip: Each Chase card that earns Ultimate Rewards comes with the opportunity to earn an introductory welcome bonus after meeting minimum spending requirements, normally in the first 3 months after card approval. Earning the bonus can significantly jumpstart your rewards earnings. For example, you may be able to get a 80k-100k welcome bonus offer for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.
The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.
Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!
Pros
10x points on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
5x points on airfare booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
$300 annual travel credit
Priority Pass airport lounge access
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
Rental car elite status with National and Avis
Cons
$550 annual fee
Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is an enhanced version of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card with even greater earnings on travel and dining purchases.
With premium travel benefits such as worldwide lounge access via Priority Pass Select membership, hundreds of dollars in potential statement credits, and a long list of travel benefits, the card can earn every penny (and more) of its also-premium annual fee.
The card shines at redemption time as well, when Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for travel at the rate of 1.5 cents per point. You’ll also have the option to transfer to travel partners for potentially greater value.
Hot Tip: Select Chase credit cards are eligible for the Pay Yourself Back feature. This temporary benefit allows you to reimburse yourself for select purchases by redeeming Ultimate Rewards points for a statement credit against those purchases at the rate of up to 1.5 cents per rewards point.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.
The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
$200
$0
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Freedom Flex℠ sure does pack quite a punch — especially for a no-annual-fee card.
The Freedom Flex card is an incredible option for those looking for a well-rounded cash-back card, or a powerful point-earner when paired with a premium card in the Ultimate Rewards family.
Pros
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
Powerful cash-back earner: 5% back on quarterly categories and travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
No annual fee
Excellent cell phone insurance
Ability to pool points
Mastercard World Elite benefits
Cons
3% foreign transaction fees in U.S. dollars
Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
In addition to elevated earning on Chase travel, dining, and at drugstores, the Freedom Flex card is known for its quarterly bonus categories that allow you to earn 5% cash-back per dollar spent on up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter.
Quarterly bonus categories change each quarter and have included merchants and services such as supermarkets/grocery stores, transportation, gas stations, warehouse clubs, online shopping, PayPal, restaurants, and more.
The card earns rewards, initially, in the form of Ultimate Rewards points. Those points can then be redeemed for cash-back, travel, shopping, and gift cards, but the true value of the points can be realized when combined with those from one of the premium Ultimate Rewards cards (i.e. one with an annual fee).
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned at the end of your first year! There is no limit to how much cash back you can earn.
Matched Cash Back
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.
When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.
Pros
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
1.5% back on all other purchases
No annual fee
Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
Ability to pool points
Cons
3% foreign transaction fee
SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Use your card for all your purchases and at the end of your first year, Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned! There is no limit to how much you can earn. Every dollar in cash back rewards you earn is a dollar Chase will match.
Unlimited 1.5% cash back is just the beginning of what you can earn. You’ll enjoy 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%.
No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
The no-annual-fee Freedom Unlimited card is the go-to card for earning elevated rewards on every purchase you make, even non-bonus category purchases. Like the Freedom Flex card, rewards are earned in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can be redeemed for cash-back, travel, or shopping, or transferred to premium Chase cards for up to 50% more in value.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.
The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.
Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash-back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
100,000 points
$2,000
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.
Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.
Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.
Pros
3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
Cell phone protection
Purchase protection
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
Rental car insurance
Extended warranty coverage
Cons
No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access
Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
The Ink Business Preferred card is the business version of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, but the card is tailored to business owners. You’ll find similar travel rewards benefits and the same annual fee.
With multiple-times earnings on common business purchases up to the first $150,000 each account anniversary, the card could be a match for the owner of a small to medium-size business.
At redemption time, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, you’ll receive up to 25% more value when redeeming for travel via the Chase Portal. You also have the option of transferring Ultimate Rewards to airline and hotel partners for even greater potential value.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card offers great rewards and no annual fee. Any new business owner that needs to get going will enjoy this card.
This card offers great rewards and no annual fee. Any new business owner that needs to get going will enjoy this card.
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
$900
$900
$0
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; 18.49% - 24.49% variable thereafter.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card has a lot going for it that makes it a compelling choice for small business owners. The card features a very lucrative 5% back on up to $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on cellular phone, landline, internet, and cable TV services each account anniversary year.
When you factor in that the card has no annual fee, and 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter, you could be adding big value back into your business for no cost out of pocket.
Pros
Earn 5% back on up to $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on cellular phone, landline, internet, and cable TV services each account anniversary year
Earn 2% back on up to $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants, and 1% back on all other purchases
Travel insurance and purchase protection
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Employee cards at no additional cost
No annual fee
Cons
Spending caps in bonus categories
Low points earning outside of bonus categories
3% foreign transaction fees
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
No Annual Fee
Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; 18.49% - 24.49% variable thereafter.
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
The Ink Business Cash card could be an excellent choice for a no-annual-fee business card option.
Tailored to small businesses, its bonus earnings on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at office supply stores, internet services, cell/wireless, landlines, and cable TV, can result in Ultimate Rewards points accumulating quickly.
Additional bonus earnings at gas stations and restaurants ensure many of your business expenses are earning rewards.
For additional information on the perks associated with this card, read up on our article featuring the many benefits of the Ink Business Cash card.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.
The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$900
$900
$0
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
As a business owner, you likely keep pretty busy and probably prefer a credit card that just keeps things simple.
If so, the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card might be just the card for you. From zero annual fee to a flat cash-back rate, the card is a no-frills option that you don’t have to think twice about.
Don’t forget too, 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Pros
1.5% cash-back on all purchases
No annual fee
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Employee cards at no additional cost
Earn flexible rewards
Cons
3% foreign transaction fee
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
No Annual Fee
Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
A busy small business owner may appreciate the simplicity of flat-rate earnings on every purchase. While the Ink Business Unlimited card is a cash-back card, the rewards are initially earned as Ultimate Rewards points that can then be redeemed for cash, statement credits, travel, and more.
This no-annual-fee small business card is also a good choice if you have a major business purchase (or purchases) coming up as you can utilize the introductory 0% APR 12-month period to repay those charges back over time without incurring interest charges. The 12-month period begins at card approval and when it ends, regular APR, as indicated in the table above, will apply. You’ll also be earning 1.5% cash-back on those purchases.
Learn more about the best Chase business credit cards, their earning power, redemption options, and benefits in our comprehensive card comparison.
Bottom Line: With the right combination of Chase cards, you can earn tons of points thanks to the numerous bonus-earning categories.
How To Earn Chase Ultimate Rewards
Welcome Bonuses and Bonus Earning Categories
The primary way you’ll earn Ultimate Rewards points is by qualifying for the initial welcome bonus offered immediately after you’re approved for a card, then subsequently with ongoing spending on the card.
You’ll want to take notice of the card’s bonus categories and be sure to use your card for spending in those elevated earning categories.
There are, however, additional ways to earn Ultimate Rewards points. Here’s a list of additional Ultimate Rewards earning opportunities.
Shop Through Chase
Earn up to 25x points by shopping via the Shop through Chase shopping portal. Image Credit: Chase
Earn unlimited additional Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent by shopping at the Shop through Chase online mall.
The bonus Ultimate Rewards points you earn are on top of any bonus categories on one of the Chase Ultimate Rewards cards.
Be aware that you must use the link provided in the shopping portal and make your purchases during the same visit in order to receive these points. There are also restrictions on using coupons, discounts, and other offers for your purchases.
With over 240 stores from which to select, you’ll find offers that can range (and fluctuate) from 1 additional Ultimate Rewards point per dollar spent at retailers such as Best Buy, up to an additional 25 points per dollar spent at magazines.com or 20x at restaurants.com.
For step-by-step instructions and tips for using the Chase shopping portal, we’ve put together all the information you need in our article on the topic.
Book Travel Through the Chase Travel Portal
Book via the Chase travel portal and earn bonus rewards when using your card. Image Credit: Chase
Use the Chase travel portal and earn rewards when you book flights, hotels, cars, cruises, vacation rentals,and activities with your Chase card.
Booking travel-related activities through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal ensures you’ll be earning rewards on every travel purchase.
This means you’ll earn 5x points per dollar spent on the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. You’ll earn 10x points when using the Chase Sapphire Reserve card for rental cars or hotels, or 5x points on airfare. The Ink Business Preferred card, meanwhile, earns 3x points on travel.
One advantage of booking through the portal is that your airline loyalty program information can be stored in the system and you’ll automatically earn miles when you book. Practically speaking, Chase buys the ticket on your behalf.
Keep in mind, if you book a hotel stay through the Chase travel portal, it’s unlikely your elite status will be recognized by the hotel and you are unlikely to earn hotel points for your stay.
Earn Points With Chase Refer-A-Friend
Earn thousands of points when referring friends and family for Chase cards. Image Credit: Chase
We all like to share things we like with our friends, but it’s even better to get a reward for it!
To find your referral link, go to Chase’s Refer-A-Friend page. Just input your details to see if your card has available referrals offers. Note that each of your cards must be input separately but your referral will be able to select from available Chase cards.
If you have difficulty with the referral link, you can call Customer Service for assistance.
Hot Tip: Send your friends the referral link via email and get started to earning your bonus Ultimate Rewards points!
How To Redeem Ultimate Rewards Points
Redemption options and the value you receive for your Ultimate Rewards points will be determined by which card you use to redeem your points, either travel rewards cards or cash-back cards.
Travel rewards cards include the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, Ink Business Preferred Card, and Chase Sapphire Reserve card
Cash-back cards include the Freedom Flex card, Freedom Unlimited card, Ink Business Cash Card, and Ink Business Unlimited card
Travel rewards cards offer more redemption options, including the ability to transfer points to the Chase travel partners and redeem for travel via the Chase travel portal for up to 50% more in value.
We’ll discuss all the ways you can utilize your rewards, but if you’re looking for specific travel redemption options, check out the best ways to redeem Chase points for travel!
Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners
Receive potentially more value for your rewards by transferring to travel partners. Image Credit: Chase
Transferring points to airline and hotel partners will often be the best use of your points, but this redemption is only available with the Chase premium travel rewards cards listed above.
To transfer points, log in at chase.com/ultimaterewards and select Transfer to Travel Partners from the drop-down menu at the top of the home page.
You’ll then be able to select the loyalty program and the number of points you want to transfer. You will need your loyalty program sign-in information to complete the transfer.
The information in your travel profile must match the personal information in your desired loyalty account. In most cases, you can transfer points to accounts of authorized users on your card and members of your household.
Most transfers are completed almost instantly or within 24 to 48 hours but may take as long as 6 to 8 weeks. Minimum transfer amounts also apply.
Once completed, points cannot be transferred back into your Chase account, so make sure you want to transfer the points!
Again, on the following screen select your desired transfer partner.
Watch for bonus offers when transferring Ultimate Rewards to travel partners. Image Credit: Chase
Bottom Line: Airline and hotel transfer partners can provide some of the best value for your Ultimate Rewards points. Be sure to check for award availability in your desired loyalty program prior to transferring points, however, as the process cannot be reversed.
Redeem Ultimate Rewards via the Chase Travel Portal
There are values to be found using your Ultimate Rewards via the travel portal. Image Credit: Chase
If you have the Ink Business Preferred card or Chase Sapphire Preferred card, your Ultimate Rewards points are worth 1.25 cents each when booking travel through the Chase travel portal.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card provides the best deal through the travel portal as each point is worth 1.5 cents each.
When booking an airline ticket or hotel stay, make sure to compare the value of transferring points to travel partners versus booking through the travel portal. Sometimes, the travel portal will actually be the better way to go.
If you have a no-annual-fee Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning card, you can still redeem points via the Chase travel portal, but points will be worth just 1 cent each.
You can purchase travel via the portal, use points, or use a combination of points and cash. Either way, the purchase will be treated as a cash transaction by the airline and you will be eligible to earn the associated amount of frequent flyer miles.
For more details on getting the most value for your travel purchases via the Chase travel portal, check out our step-by-step tutorial.
Redeem for Chase Experiences
You’ll find a variety of unique and potentially valuable redemption options with exclusive Chase Experiences. Image Credit: Chase
If you’re looking for alternative ways to use your points, you might try booking experiences. Chase curates exclusive experiences that you would likely not be able to access on your own.
Check back often for exclusive offers and redemption values as they are updated on a regular basis.
You can pay for these offers with cash or points at a value of 1 cent per point.
The Chase Experiences portal is separate from the Chase portal, so you may have to log back into your Chase account after visiting the site.
Redeem for Chase Sapphire Dining
Select cardholders have access to unique dining experiences and exclusive reservations. Image Credit: Chase
Cardholders of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, Chase Sapphire Reserve card, Freedom Flex card, or Ink cards receive access to the Chase Dining hub via Ultimate Rewards online.
This program offers benefits like exclusive Chase cardmember table reservations, virtual dining experiences with top chefs, curated meals-to-go, and the ability to use Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
Cash-Back as Statement Credit or Direct Deposit
Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for cash back at a value of 1 cent per point. Image Credit: Chase
Chase lets you use your points as credits on your statement at 1 cent per point. Simply transfer your cash-back earnings to your balance as a statement credit.
To redeem for statement credit, click the Use Points option on the Ultimate Rewards home screen, and then click Get Cash Back. The minimum redemption amount is $20.00, or 2,000 points. You’ll also have the option on this page to cash out points and transfer funds to your bank account.
Another option for a statement credit is to use Pay Yourself Back which reimburses you for specific purchases.
Gift Cards
If you must redeem your points for gift cards, always wait for a sale. Image Credit: Chase
You can redeem your Ultimate Rewards points for gift cards for merchants where you normally shop such as iTunes, Lowe’s, and many more.
Most options are valued at 1 cent per point, however, some gift cards can offer a better value with 10% or more in discounts.
Redeeming for gift cards may not be the best value for your Ultimate Rewards points.
Shopping via Amazon.com or Apple Purchases
Redeem Ultimate Rewards at Amazon or for Apple purchase via the Chase portal. Image Credit: Chase
Chase Ultimate Rewards partners directly with Amazon.com for merchandise redemptions. This means you can shop directly on Amazon’s website, rather than go through the Chase shopping portal.
Your Ultimate Rewards points will only receive a value of 8/10 of a cent per point, however, so it is not a good-value redemption option. You can also combine your points with cash or other payment methods.
Link your Chase and Amazon accounts at any time to use this redemption option, including at the time of checkout.
You cannot use Ultimate Rewards directly at the Apple store but you can redeem Ultimate Rewards for Apple purchases via the Chase portal at a value of 1 cent each.
Bottom Line: Not all redemption options are created equal. Your best value may be realized when redeeming Ultimate Rewards points for travel either by transferring points to airline and hotel partners or potentially via the Chase travel portal.
Using Your Ultimate Rewards Dashboard Portal
Your Chase Ultimate Rewards portal allows you to view and manage your points, transfer points between cards, check your category spending, book travel, shop, and redeem rewards.
The Chase Ultimate Rewards portal is the place to start to manage your Ultimate Rewards account. Image Credit: Chase
Once you log in, select the card you want to view and you’ll be directed to the home page for that card.
Use the dropdown screen to switch between card accounts you’d like to view. Image Credit: Chase
View Your Points Summaries and Category Spend
The home page screen of any of your credit cards lets you view your earned and available points, your transaction details, and which points will appear on your next statement.
With Chase Ultimate Rewards, it’s easy to check the bonus category spend on Chase credit cards. Plus you’ll have access to all of your current and historical spending data for each card.
You’ll find a separate dashboard for each Chase card, making it easy to manage your Ultimate Rewards. Image Credit: Chase
Redeem Your Points
You’ll also be able to select options to make redemptions such as shopping, gift card options, or experiences.
Your Ultimate Rewards dashboard will show you all the available redemption options. Image Credit: Chase
Combining Your Points Onto 1 Card
The Ultimate Rewards portal is your source for viewing, managing, and redeeming your rewards. Image Credit: Chase
From this main screen, you can also combine all of your points onto 1 card. Select Combine Points from the menu at the top of the page and you will be guided through the process.
Bottom Line: The Chase Ultimate Rewards portal is your source for viewing, managing, tracking, and learning how to earn and redeem Ultimate Rewards points. Each Chase card has its own separate section within the portal making it simple to manage each individual card account.
Everything Else You Need To Know
What Are Chase Ultimate Rewards Points Worth?
The value of your Ultimate Rewards points will vary depending on the redemption option you select. As a baseline, however, Chase follows the industry standard with each point worth 1 cent for a basic redemption.
There are ways to secure more value for your points.
When you use your cards to redeem travel rewards via the Chase travel portal, the value of each point can increase when using a Chase premium card to a minimum of 1.25 cents or 1.5 cents per point.
When you transfer points to any Chase reward travel partners, the redemption value of each point can be worth even more with some redemptions resulting in up to 5 to 8 cents per point for international first and business class options. We value Ultimate Rewards points at an average of 2 cents each.
Ultimate Rewards Points Expiration
Unlike other rewards programs that cancel your points if your accounts are inactivefor 6 to 18 months, your Chase rewards points never expire, as long as your accounts are open and in good standing.
Once you cancel your account, the points are forfeited. However, you can product change your premium Chase card to a no-annual-fee Chase card and keep your points available.
Comparing Ultimate Rewards to Other Transferable Points Programs
It’s pretty clear you’ll have access to great travel experiences by earning and redeeming Ultimate Rewards points, but how do these rewards compare to other transferable points programs?
Here’s just a snapshot of additional transferrable rewards programs. Click on the included links for additional information on maximizing each of these travel rewards currencies.
Ultimate Rewards vs. Amex Membership Rewards
Both programs have their pluses and minuses. For example, there are more American Express-issued cards that earn Membership Rewards points than Chase-issued cards that earn Ultimate Rewards.
Membership Rewards also has more travel partners than Ultimate Rewards. However, both programs can cover most airlines and awards through the various partner alliances. Chase also has the advantage of a partnership with the World of Hyatt program.
Both Chase and American Express have shopping incentives that allow you to earn more rewards or receive statement credits for shopping at various merchants. Chase offers a shopping portal and Chase Offers while American Express has Amex Offers.
You will be charged a small fee of $0.0006 per point (maximum of $99 per transaction) to transfer Membership Rewards to U.S. carriers. There are no fees to transfer to international carriers. Chase does not charge a fee to transfer Ultimate Rewards to travel partners.
Capital One miles can be redeemed directly through the card’s travel portal. For this reason, Capital One miles could be more flexible as you can find the best deal from any travel provider and use your miles to receive a statement credit for the travel purchase.
However, you’ll be redeeming miles for 1 cent each versus up to 1.5 cents each via the Chase portal with Chase premium cards.
Both programs allow you to transfer rewards to airline partners for greater potential value although Capital One ratios for doing so can be a lesser value than Chase’s 1:1. When it comes to hotels, Capital One has Accor and Wyndham as partners while Chase doesn’t. Chase’s best hotel partner is arguably Hyatt.
There are some good-value options for redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points for some amazing flights with dozens of airline transfer partners and for hotel stays.
Bottom Line: We estimate the overall relative value, based on earning and redemption options, of Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents each, Membership Rewards points 2.2 cents each, Capital One miles at 1.4 cents, Marriott Bonvoy points at 0.7 cents each, and ThankYou Points at 1.6 cents each.
Final Thoughts
When applying for Chase cards, keep in mind the 5/24 rule. If you have opened 5 or more cards from any card issuer, including Chase, (not including most business cards) in the last 24 months, you will not be approved for a Chase card.
For that reason, you want to select the best Chase Ultimate Rewards earning cards when you are just starting out. Ultimate Rewards earning cards allow you to accumulate points that can be used to fly with dozens of different airlines thanks to its airline transfer partners. On top of that, you can transfer to Hyatt for some amazing Hyatt redemptions.
With several cards that can help you earn points quickly and some amazing redemption options, Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning cards deserve a place in every traveler’s wallet.
The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
Featured Image Credit: Upgraded Points
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chase Ultimate Rewards?
Ultimate Rewards is a loyalty program developed by Chase that rewards customers for using its credit cards. By signing up for a card in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can earn points on your purchases and redeem them for rewards.
Awards vary from travel to merchandise, gift cards, and more. Points can be used along with Chase premium travel rewards cards for up to 50% more in value via the Chase travel portal, or transfer points to the Chase travel partners at a 1:1 ratio.
These are the Ultimate Rewards earning cards that have been reviewed on our site:
Chase Sapphire Preferred card
Chase Sapphire Reserve card
Freedom Flex card
Freedom Unlimited card
Ink Business Preferred card
Ink Business Cash card
Ink Business Unlimited card
How much are Chase points worth?
The value of your Ultimate Rewards points depends on how you redeem them. For redemptions using cash-back cards, or for purchases outside of travel rewards, the value is typically 1 cent per point.
When you redeem your points using Chase’s exclusive travel rewards portal, their value increases up to 1.25 cents per point with the Chase Sapphire Preferred card or Ink Business Preferred card. With the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you can receive up to 1.5 cents per point through the travel portal.
If you transfer points to a Chase travel partner, you may increase the value of the points to over 2 cents per point, or more, to redeem for premium international travel rewards.
How do you use Chase Ultimate Rewards?
Once you are approved for any 1 of the 7 Chase Ultimate Rewards cards, you begin earning points immediately simply by using the card.
All points earned accrue in your Ultimate Rewards account and never expire as long as your account is open and in good standing.
When you are ready to redeem your points, the Ultimate Rewards portal offers various options and suggestions for using your points.
How do you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Points can be earned through purchases on your credit cards, each with specific bonus categories. Depending on the card, you can earn bonus points for travel, dining, office supply stores, department stores, hotels, restaurants, and more.
Earn additional bonus points by shopping at the Chase online shopping mall that has over 200 merchants offering from 1x to 25x bonus points just for using their online shops.
You also earn points through generous welcome bonuses — the easiest way to earn lots of valuable points. To receive the bonus you must meet a minimum amount of spending, which varies per card, within the first 3 months after card approval.
How do you use Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Chase points can be used in various ways. You can get cash-back on your statement, or make direct deposits into your bank account. You can also use points for gift cards, or through Amazon.com for general merchandise.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card or Ink Business Preferred card offers great value via the travel rewards portal. You can receive 25% more in value when redeeming via the travel portal, or you can transfer the points to your favorite loyalty programs.
Using the Chase Sapphire Reserve card gives you 50% more in value!
Finally, you can use your points in the Chase Experience portal to book unique experiences that you would not be able to access otherwise, or shop with Amazon and Apple.
What are the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel partners?
Airline partners include Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air France/KLM, British Airways, Iberia, JetBlue, Singapore Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic. Hotel partners include Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott.
What is the Chase Ultimate Rewards phone number?
Call 877-660-0905 to reach an Ultimate Rewards travel agent. Call the number on the back of your card for all other inquiries.
Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
